In focus: Are you interested in Medicine?

Medicine is a highly competitive pathway, but as you can see from Eloise’s reflection, it is achievable if you have an incredible dedication to learning and this pathway.

Access to medicine typically involves a range of important entry requirements which can include: Pre-requisite studies, minimum ATAR (or WAM for graduate entry), UCAT (or GAMSAT for graduate entry) and an interview or MMI.

Students interested in this pathway should carefully review the details in the attached list of Medicine Courses (Medicine Matrix), as a starting point for further investigation. The Dental Courses (Dental Matrix) has also been included.

UCAT QUICK FACTS:

• the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is a 2-hour computer-based test that assesses a range of abilities identified by universities as important in practicing in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and clinical sciences
• the UCAT will be offered on a choice of dates from 1 July to 12 August 2022, rather than on one single date
• some pathways to medicine/dentistry/clinical sciences will not require the UCAT and some courses may require another test
• UCAT registrations are open now and close 17 May 2022.

Institutions that will require the UCAT are:

• Students are encouraged to browse University Clinical Aptitude Test to find out more
  Browse details about the UCAT test format  
• Read the essential Practice Tips to become familiar with the test before preparation
• UCAT practice tests are to assist students familiarise themselves with the type of questions they can expect to see in the test
• Completing practice tests is a vital part of preparation for the UCAT
• Another excellent link to browse is  iCan Med - Resources
  
   

WHAT IS AN MMI? 

A multiple mini interview consists of a series of short, structured interview stations used to assess non-cognitive qualities including cultural sensitivity, maturity, teamwork, empathy, reliability and communication skills. Prior to the start of each mini interview rotation, candidates receive a question/scenario and have a short period of time (typically two minutes) to prepare an answer. Upon entering the interview room, the candidate has a short exchange with an interviewer/assessor (usually about 8 minutes). In some cases, the interviewer observes while the interaction takes place between an actor and the candidate. At the end of each mini interview, the interviewer evaluates the candidate’s performance while the applicant moves to the next station. This pattern is repeated through a number of rotations. The duration of the entire interview is about two hours. 

Generally, the situational questions posed in a MMI touch on the following areas: 

1. Ethical Decision Making; 

2. Critical Thinking; 

3. Communication Skills; 

4. Societal Health Issues. 

Although participants must relate to the scenario posed at each station, it is important to note that the MMI is not intended to test specific knowledge in the field of medicine. Instead, the interviewers evaluate each candidate’s thought process and ability to think on his or her feet. As such, there are no right or wrong answers to the questions posed in a MMI, but each applicant should consider the question from a variety of perspectives. 

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR AN MMI? 

Candidates typically exhibit anxiety in anticipation of challenging questions that may arise. Many people have difficulty formulating logical, cohesive, polished answers within the allotted preparation time prior to the start of each station. 

How well you perform during the actual interview and whether you will ultimately succeed in gaining admission to medical school is in large measure linked to the preparation you do in advance. The most effective strategy to prepare for a MMI is to anticipate the types of questions/scenarios you will face and to practice your answers. Here are a few tips: 

• Understand the goal: You should aim to answer the questions in a manner that demonstrates that you are capable of being an excellent medical student and thereafter, an outstanding physician. Make a list of the attributes that you believe are essential for success as a doctor, such as integrity and the ability to think critically. Practice integrating these key attributes into your answers. 
• Work on time management: Many students experience difficulty with pacing and effectively answering the question in the allotted time. Remember that once the bell has sounded, the interview must end immediately even if the candidate is not finished. Therefore, proper pacing is essential. Practice 7 to 8 minute presentations in advance of your interview to get comfortable with timing. Ensure that you wear a watch that clearly displays the time (e.g. a digital watch) on the interview day, since you cannot rely on a clock being present in each interview room. Appropriately managing your time will give you the opportunity to end the interview in an organized and effective manner. 
• Listen carefully: During the MMI, the interviewer will often provide prompts designed to direct you. Listen carefully to the cues provided so you can take advantage of any new information that may be introduced. The prompts may guide you to the specific issues that are the focus of each rotation. 

Conclusion: Although success cannot be guaranteed, your performance can improve significantly with knowledge about the interview process, strategies to avoid frequent pitfalls and knowing ways to sell yourself so that you get the place that you deserve. Poise under pressure can make the difference between achieving your goals and falling just short. As you get ready for the big day, consider including a mock interview as a key part of your preparations. Simulating what you are about to experience will help build confidence, allowing you to remain calm and more organized on the interview day.

Other resources

Interested students might also like to download a UCAT Guide developed by UCAT Masterclass, https://bit.ly/3HMyzTS 

UCAT Preparation Sessions/Resources

• National Institute of Education is running an online simulated UCAT workshop on Saturday 16 April between 10am – 5pm. An in person is also available on 10 April, 9am – 5pm, Melbourne, www.nie.edu.au.
• Can also get an online UCAT preparation resource (for a $) at www.ucatmasterclass.com/ucat-med 

Medicine Information Sessions

• Monash University, Wednesday 6 April. This will be an online webinar. Book via www.monash.edu/discover/events

Medical Speciality Factsheets

NSW Health has compiled an extensive list of extremely useful fact sheets to assist students in making more informed career choices about the many careers in the health industry, and to ensure their career plans not only fulfil their personal aspirations but also align with the needs of the industry. Students keen on finding out more about what the job is about, whether or not there is a shortage, etc. are encouraged to browse the following link on NSW Health - Medical Career Planning.